Clunk with 1-2 upshift

DSHornet · 08-04-2008, 04:47 PM

It seems I've seen this in another message but I couldn't find it with a search, so here it is:

The car is a '96 EX with automatic tranny and rarely used 4WD. After the car is driven a mile or two, when it upshifts from 1 to 2, there is a muffled clunk under the floor. Sometimes it sounds like it may be the rear end, other times it sounds like it may be the transfer case. Since noises can be conducted along the driveline, it's hard to pin down. Over the last eight months, when it started as a barely audible "click," it's gradually gotten louder. The sound is there whether in 2- or 4-wheel drive.

The transfer case fluid was changed about two months ago and the fluid level is up. The rear end doesn't seem to have a lot of slack in it and it also is full. The u-joints and the driveshaft slip yoke don't feel like they are getting badly worn.

Ideas, anyone?

Chicago · 08-07-2008, 09:35 AM

Rear transmission mount?

DSHornet · 08-07-2008, 05:52 PM

Hmmm ... worth a look, as soon as I can get another day off.

tonup · 08-10-2008, 10:09 AM

don't be too sure about the unis, if the needles have worn they often will twist in the cup and seem to be solid. The only real way to test them is to take the main drive shaft off and check the unis manually by removing the cups and inspecting.
Try 'kangaroo hopping' that is in 2nd gear rapidly press and release the accelerator so it hops along, the clunks will be accentuated as there is a lot more strain put on the joints than you can apply with your hands.